Diagnosis---etc

Diagnosis

Currently, there are no objective medical tests for the diagnosis of autism and no reproducible genetic or biological markers for the disorder. The diagnosis is made with a multidisciplinary approach involving a developmental pediatrician, psychologist, speech and language professional, audiologist, and special educator.

Using a standardized rating scale, the specialist closely observes and evaluates the child's language and social behavior. A structured interview is also used to elicit information from parents about the child's behavior and early development. Reviewing family videotapes, photos, and baby albums may help parents recall when each behavior first occurred and when the child reached certain developmental milestones. The specialists may also test for certain genetic and neurological problems.

Treatment team

The treatment of childhood autism traditionally falls within the competence of the psychiatrist and the psychologist and involves the application of various methods of individual therapy. Speech therapists can work with children to help them develop social and language skills because children learn most effectively and rapidly when very young.

Moreover, occupational therapists and physiotherapists are important professionals in the development and life quality improvement for patients and parents. The treatment involves a therapist's work with the child and with the caregivers, who work with the child at home under the therapist's direction. Basic medical assistance is provided by the pediatrician and other physicians.

Treatment

No definitive treatment regimes have thus far been developed for this serious disturbance and therapy is generally merely supportive. Some attempts have been made to support such therapy with psychiatry and psychology, as well as high doses of vitamin B6, vitamin E, and magnesium. Various psychoactive drugs have also been tried, as well as a group of medications called H2 blockers. A "hugging machine" has been built to support therapy by the holding method. This device makes it possible for children with autism to overcome their fear of touch (tactile stimuli).

An alternative treatment approach has been attempted using secretin, which is a hormone secreted by cells in the digestive tract to help control digestion. The history of the application of secretin in the treatment of childhood autism dates back to 1996, when, by coincidence, a significant improvement in mental condition was noticed in a child with autism who had received secretin for diagnostic purposes. When it was administrated, one of the chief symptoms of autism, the avoidance of eye contact, was 75% reduced. Some additional children with autism also showed limited improvement after treatment with secretin. On January 5, 2004, results of a clinical trial revealed that the hormone was of little value in improving the socialization of young children with autism. Nevertheless, many parents and physicians continue to advocate development of the drug and further study.